The October 2004 issue of Scientific American contains a report on research
that shows the effects of reading poetry on regulating your heartbeat. The
study concerned hexameters, in their original language and in German
translations.

An excerpt: ''Reciting the Iliad could have epic effects on your health.
German physiologists have recently shown that such poetry can get your
heart beating in time with your breaths. This synchronization may improve
gas exchange in the lungs as well as the body's sensitivity and
responsiveness to blood pressure changes.''